Mrs. Robinson – Simon & Garfunkel

Discover the rich acoustic textures and unforgettable melodies of “Mrs. Robinson” by Simon & Garfunkel with our detailed note-for-note guitar lesson at LickLibrary.com. This song, a timeless folk-rock classic, offers a goldmine of technique for guitarists interested in expanding their skills across rhythm, articulation, and melodic expression. In this comprehensive lesson, we break down every chord, riff, and subtle nuance found in the original performance to give you the most accurate and educational experience possible. Lee Hodgson breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song & Guitar Work

“Mrs. Robinson” gained iconic status as part of the The Graduate soundtrack and became one of Simon & Garfunkel’s biggest hits. The guitar work in this song is a masterclass in acoustic precision and dynamic rhythm playing, featuring a blend of finger-picking patterns, chord embellishments, and rhythmic drive that bring the song’s storytelling to life.

Paul Simon, the principal guitarist and composer, showcases his signature acoustic style in this track. His ability to interweave folk, jazz, and pop influences creates a unique, textured playing style that is deceptively intricate beneath its singable surface. Learning Simon's playing not only builds your repertoire of classic songs but also strengthens your technique, timing, and touch on the acoustic guitar.

Techniques Explored in the Lesson

Finger-Picking

One of the most prominent techniques in “Mrs. Robinson” is finger-picking. Simon uses his thumb and fingers independently to pluck bass notes and melody lines simultaneously, giving the song its flowing, layered sound. Learning finger-picking sharpens hand coordination, enhances your dynamic control, and opens the door to a wide variety of folk and acoustic styles.

Chord Progressions

This song features beautifully arranged chord progressions that blend open chords with subtle extensions and transitions. Analysing these progressions gives you insight into harmonic movement and song structure, vital for any player aiming to write or interpret songs more effectively.

Capo Use

Paul Simon makes use of a capo in this performance to change the key and access voicings that would otherwise be difficult to play. Understanding how to use a capo can help guitarists play in different keys while maintaining familiar chord shapes, improving versatility and expanding your creative options.

Slides

You’ll also encounter tasteful slides between chord shapes and melodic lines, adding fluidity and character to the transitions. This technique trains your hand to move with confidence across the fretboard while adding a vocal-like quality to your phrasing.

Hammer-Ons & Pull-Offs

Simon’s playing includes subtle embellishments using hammer-ons and pull-offs, particularly within chord transitions. Mastering these techniques adds grace and speed to your playing, allowing for smoother movement and expression within a melodic phrase.

Travis Picking Elements

Elements of Travis picking can be heard in Simon’s alternating bass and syncopated melody patterns. This technique develops a deep internal sense of rhythm and independence between the thumb and fingers, perfect for any solo acoustic performer.

Why Learn “Mrs. Robinson”?

Learning “Mrs. Robinson” offers more than just the ability to play a beloved classic—it’s a deep dive into refined acoustic guitar technique. From its intricate finger-picking to its flowing chord transitions and rhythmic syncopation, this track strengthens the foundation for any guitarist focused on improving their precision, musicality, and control.

Whether you're an intermediate player seeking to expand your acoustic capabilities or an advanced guitarist interested in Paul Simon’s subtle artistry, this lesson gives you the tools and context needed to master one of the most enduring songs in popular music history.

Techniques Used in “Mrs. Robinson”

• Finger-Picking
• Chord Progressions
• Capo
• Slides
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Travis Picking

Ready to master the guitar magic behind “Mrs. Robinson”? Jump into the lesson now and add a classic to your playing arsenal with confidence and clarity.